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Brasília National Library: A Modernist Temple of Knowledge

Explore Brasilia's architectural gem, a modern library with a vast collection and tranquil atmosphere for learning and cultural enrichment.

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The Biblioteca Nacional de Brasília, designed by Oscar Niemeyer, is a key part of the Cultural Complex of the Republic. Opened in 2006, its modern architecture and vast collection of over 500,000 items make it a cultural and intellectual hub in Brazil's capital.

A brief summary to Brasília National Library

  • Setor Cultural da República, Área Cívica, Lote s/n Edíficio da Biblioteca Nacional, SCTS, Brasilia, Brasília, Federal District, 70070-150, BR
  • +55613325-6257
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit during weekdays for a quieter atmosphere, ideal for reading and studying.
  • Check the library's event schedule for workshops and exhibitions that may coincide with your visit.
  • Explore nearby cultural landmarks, such as the National Museum, for a full day of learning and exploration.
  • Bring a valid ID if you wish to access certain restricted areas or borrow books.
  • Take photos of the library's unique architecture and stunning reading areas.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in the central area of Brasília, you can walk to the Brasília National Library. From the National Museum of the Brazilian Republic, head west towards the Eixo Monumental. Continue straight until you reach the Praça dos Três Poderes. From there, walk towards the Edifício da Biblioteca Nacional, which will be on your left. Walking from the Central Station takes approximately 20-25 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Brasília Metro to the 'Central' station. Once you exit the metro, transfer to bus line 113 or 114 heading towards the Setor Cultural da República. After about 10 minutes, disembark at the 'Biblioteca Nacional' stop, which is very close to the library's entrance. The metro ticket price is R$5.50. Bus fares range from R$ 1.50 to R$ 3.00.

  • Taxi/Ride-Sharing

    If you prefer more direct transportation, consider using a taxi or a ride-sharing app like Uber. Simply input 'Biblioteca Nacional' or the address 'Setor Cultural da República, Área Cívica, Lote s/n' into the app. The driver will take you directly to the library's entrance. A 20-minute taxi ride from the airport to the city center costs around €7.30 (BRL 40) during the day. Taxi fares in Brasilia have a base fee of €0.74 (BRL 4.08), and a cost per km of €0.40 (BRL 2.22).

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Discover more about Brasília National Library

The Brasília National Library, officially named the Leonel de Moura Brizola National Library, stands as a testament to modernist architecture and a beacon of knowledge in the heart of Brazil's capital. Designed by the renowned Oscar Niemeyer and inaugurated in 2006, the library is part of the Cultural Complex of the Republic, located along the Eixo Monumental. The library's architecture is characterized by its sleek lines, expansive glass façades, and a rectangular form that distinguishes it from Niemeyer's other more curved works. The building covers 14,000 square meters and houses reading rooms, study spaces, and an auditorium. The library's collection boasts over 500,000 items, encompassing a wide range of literature, historical documents, and research materials. The Brasília National Library serves not only as a repository of knowledge but also as a venue for cultural events, exhibitions, and workshops. It offers a tranquil atmosphere for reading and reflection, providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Its central location near other landmarks makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Brasília's cultural scene. While the Rio de Janeiro National Library holds a larger collection and a longer history, the Brasília National Library plays a vital role in promoting literacy, research, and cultural enrichment in the capital city.

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